The provided documentation details installation procedures and operational considerations for Lewmar ocean hatches. These hatches are designed for marine applications and require careful installation to ensure proper function and prevent issues related to deck distortion or water ingress. The documentation emphasizes the importance of a flat mounting surface, appropriate fastener selection based on deck material, and adherence to safety guidelines during installation. Operational notes include instructions for checking hatch function and warnings against using lubricants on the friction lever.
Hatch Installation Preparation
Prior to installing a Lewmar ocean hatch, the documentation stresses the need for adequate deck preparation. The hatch must be fitted to a flat surface with a maximum tolerance of +/- 1mm. The deck or hull thickness is not specified within the provided documents. When preparing the opening, it is advised to mark the deck around the inside edge of the lower frame. For hatches with a lower frame flange, the aperture size should be increased by 3mm all around.
The documentation recommends creating a template when installing multiple hatches to ensure consistency. The deck should be cut along the marked pencil line using a suitable saw. For composite decks, sealing the exposed laminate with an appropriate material before installation is recommended. Metal decks require the removal of all burrs and sharp edges from the cut opening.
It is crucial to note that hatches should not be used as structural components. The documentation explicitly states that hatches should not be considered as stiffening members, and the deck should be adequately reinforced to prevent distortion, particularly in heavy weather conditions.
Fastener Selection and Installation Procedure
The correct selection of fasteners is critical for a secure and watertight installation. The documentation provides a table outlining appropriate fastener types based on deck material:
- Wood: M5 through bolts or marine-grade wood screws.
- GRP/Steel/Al Alloy: M5 through bolts or machine screws into suitable tapped plates.
- Fixing Sizes: M5, 10UNC, 2BA, 3/16", Wood screws (minimum length 40mm).
- Hinge Fixings: M6 or 1/4" through bolts only.
The installation process begins with positioning the lower frame over the prepared opening and drilling two fixing screw holes in opposite corners. Appropriate stainless steel fasteners should then be inserted. The remaining holes should be drilled, and the frame fastened down, working from the center outwards towards the edges. Any excess sealant should be cleaned off after fastening. Through bolts are required when fixings pass through the lower hinges, and these must be M6 or 1/4" in size.
The documentation advises against removing the lid during the deck securing process. It also suggests applying a small amount of silicone sealant into the fastener holes before securing the hatch to enhance the seal.
Operational Checks and Maintenance
After installation, it is essential to check the hatch for correct operation. This includes verifying smooth closing and locking functionality, as well as ensuring even pressure of the seal around the perimeter of the hatch. If the hatch does not operate correctly, re-adjustment may be necessary.
The documentation specifically warns against using lubricants on the friction lever, as this can negatively impact its function. The documentation states to open the hatch and check for correct operation, re-adjusting if necessary.
Safety Considerations
The documentation includes a general safety warning stating that failure to follow the provided instructions may result in death, serious personal injury, severe product and/or property damage, and voiding of the Lippert limited warranty. The documentation also notes that some states and countries may have limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, and this limitation may not apply in all cases.
Deck Stiffening Requirements
The documentation repeatedly emphasizes that hatches should not be relied upon for structural support. Adequate deck stiffening is crucial to prevent distortion during heavy weather. This requirement is highlighted both in the installation instructions and in a general note regarding hatch functionality.
Conclusion
The provided documentation outlines a specific procedure for the installation of Lewmar ocean hatches. Proper installation requires careful preparation of the deck opening, selection of appropriate fasteners based on deck material, and adherence to safety guidelines. Post-installation checks are essential to ensure correct operation and a watertight seal. The documentation consistently stresses the importance of adequate deck stiffening to prevent distortion and maintain the integrity of the vessel. The documentation also cautions against the use of lubricants on the friction lever.
Sources
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